News Release

MIRAMICHI (GNB) – Seniors living in the Miramichi region are signing up for a program that is designed to help them remain independent longer.

The Seniors Health, Well-being and Home Safety Review connects seniors with important programs and services in their communities.

“New Brunswick has the oldest population per capita in Canada,” said Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Lisa Harris. “Your government is putting programs and services in place now that ensure seniors remain independent, healthy and involved in their communities. The Seniors Health, Well-being and Home Safety Review is one of the tools that will help them do so.”

Almost 750 seniors have signed-up for the review and that number is growing daily.

During a 90-minute home visit with a trained individual, seniors learn about programs in their community that can help them in their daily lives. The program is voluntary. Interested seniors, who are 65 and over, may decide to have a relative or friend present during the review.

All information gathered during the review is confidential and will be used to create a personalized action plan for the senior that will provide suggestions for maintaining a healthy, active and independent lifestyle. As well, eligible seniors may apply for $1,500 in assistance to do minor in-home repairs that will improve their mobility or independence.

The program started in the Saint John and Restigouche regions in the summer followed by Fredericton and Miramichi in the fall. Moncton and Chaleur regions will roll out in December; and Edmundston and the Acadian Peninsula regions will start the program in March 2018.

Fostering healthy aging and support for seniors is one of the seven priority areas outlined in the New Brunswick Family Plan framework, which also focuses government action on: improving access to primary and acute care; promoting wellness; supporting people with addictions and mental health challenges; advancing women’s equality; reducing poverty and providing support for persons living with a disability.

People can learn more about programs for seniors by visiting www.gnb.ca or calling 1-855-550-0552 to arrange for a review.